The Department of Mathematics at the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA) of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) officially opened the MIDSEA Summer School 2025, a regional scientific forum aimed at strengthening capacity and expanding networks in the field of infectious disease modeling. This event will take place from June 23–29, 2025, at The Alana Yogyakarta Hotel & Convention Center, focusing on enhancing research and collaboration in mathematical modeling to address the increasingly complex and dynamic challenges posed by infectious diseases.
The opening ceremony was held with a warm and solemn atmosphere, beginning with a welcoming speech by the master of ceremonies, followed by the national anthem, “Indonesia Raya.” The cultural vibe was further enriched by a Gambyong dance performance by dancers from the Unit Kesenian Jawa Gaya Surakarta (UKJGS) of UGM, adding a unique cultural touch to the event.
In his speech, Dr. Nanang Susyanto, S.Si., M.Sc., M.Act.Sc., the Head of the Department of Mathematics at FMIPA UGM, emphasized the critical role of mathematics in understanding and addressing public health issues, particularly amid the ongoing global pandemic. He also outlined the department’s key programs, including quality education, cutting-edge research, and ongoing scientific collaborations.
The event was then officially opened by Prof. Dr. Eng. Kuwat Triyana, M.Si., Dean of FMIPA UGM. In his address, Prof. Kuwat expressed full support for MIDSEA as an essential academic collaboration initiative across countries, particularly in tackling the increasingly complex health challenges of today’s globalized world. He described this partnership as the “Golden Keeper” – a golden synergy that unites ideas, innovative research, training, and practical applications that are beneficial for society. Prof. Kuwat encouraged participants to make the most of this opportunity and hoped they would have a productive and enjoyable experience during their time at the Summer School in Yogyakarta.
Following this, Prof. Alex Cook from the National University of Singapore (NUS), who is also a key representative of MIDSEA, shared the initiative’s vision and mission. Prof. Cook explained that MIDSEA is a strategic collaboration network aimed at building research capacity and facilitating knowledge exchange in data-driven infectious disease modeling. The primary focus of MIDSEA is to integrate expertise in mathematics and epidemiology to support more accurate and responsive public health decision-making at the regional level. With a solid scientific approach and strong cross-border networking, MIDSEA is expected to serve as a foundation for developing adaptive strategies for the prevention and control of infectious diseases in Southeast Asia.
“MIDSEA aims to create a strong and coordinated network of researchers using mathematical models as a foundation for better public health decision-making in the region,” stated Prof. Cook.
After the vibrant opening ceremony, the MIDSEA Summer School 2025 continued with interactive seminars, practical workshops, and panel discussions involving experts and participants from various fields. This program is designed to enhance participants’ technical skills while building long-term collaborative networks that can significantly contribute to the control of infectious diseases in Southeast Asia.
Keywords: MIDSEA, Summer School, Infectious Diseases
Author: Priscilla Deviana Tachija
Photo: Fathan Rasyid Rahmadhan